If you’ve lived in Washington longer than roughly five minutes, you have certainly heard of (and hopefully experienced) Taco Time. From the irresistible crispy burritos to the iconic Mexi Fries (also known as the best tater tot marketing in history), there’s truly something special about this place. Taco Time never pretends to be something it’s not (authentic Mexican food) but always delivers what it promises (delicious fast-casual meals).

And if you’ve eaten at Taco Time in Western Washington, you may have noticed that the food, although identical in looks and name, tastes a bit different than the food from Taco Time in Eastern Washington, Oregon, and beyond. You are not mistaken. Taco Time Northwest is a completely different restaurant, and it has been owned by the same family for a whopping four generations.

In 1962, Frank Tonkin Sr. opened the first Taco Time Northwest location. He had a goal of becoming the leader of quick service Mexican restaurants.
James Proctor / Google
More locations opened promptly, and they didn't stop. There are now 79 Taco Time Northwest locations in Washington.
Believe it or not, the Tonkin family still owns this fast-casual chain.
John Akers Jr / Google
Cousins Chris and Robby Tonkin are co-presidents of Taco Time Northwest, carrying on the legacy of their grandfather.
Like other members of the Tonkin family, Chris and Robby worked just about every position at Taco Time before graduating from college and earning their current positions.
David / Google
They think of their employees as family, which is evident by the high employee satisfaction rate.

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So... how is Taco Time Northwest different from other Taco Times?
Taco Time NW / Facebook
Taco Time Northwest is wholly independent from Kahala Corporation, which owns the rest of the Taco Time locations. Taco Time Northwest is located mostly in Western Washington, although there is a location in Wenatchee.
At Taco Time Northwest, ingredients are sourced as locally as possible, so they often taste a bit more fresh ...
Taco Time NW / Facebook
... but they have the same tasty menu items as the rest of the locations.
Taco Time NW / Facebook
Who among us hasn't craved some crunchy tacos, crispy burritos, or Mexi Fries after a long day, or a long night, or a random Tuesday afternoon?
Taco Time Northwest is a true gem, and the family who owns the local chain clearly takes pride in what they do.
Taco Time NW / Facebook
There's a reason this place has won numerous awards, including the title of Best Fast Food in Washington.

So, what’s your favorite thing to order at Taco Time?

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Featured Addresses
Taco Time NW, 10055 16th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98146, USA